In this article, we will discuss about Array Expansion and Logical Drive Extension. Array Expansion adds more storage capacity to an existing RAID array. If an existing array is nearing its data limits, we can simply add a new physical drive and we can expand the capacity without disturbing the existing data. Once the array expansion is completed, we can use this newly added capacity to extend the existing logical drive size.
What is Array Expansion?
As per HP, Array Expansion is the process of adding a physical drive to an existing array. The logical drives that exist on the array before the expansion takes place are unchanged. Only the amount of free space on the array changes.
Above diagram shows what is an Array Expansion is all about. The diagram shows that we have an existing array consists of 3 Physical hard drives. Now we are adding a new physical drive to this array and this process is called Array Expansion. The word “Expansion” is always related to an Array.
The amount of time it takes to perform an online capacity expansion depends on several parameters: hard drive speed, the amount of other I/O work the server is currently doing, and the priority level of the capacity expansion. This priority level can be changed from low to medium or high to expand the array as quickly as possible.
What is Logical drive Extension?
As per HP, Logical Drive Extension is the process of growing the size of a logical drive. In this case, the size of the logical drive reported to the OS is increased. The word “Extension” is always related to the Logical Drive.
The logical drive extension allows you to increase the logical volume size if you are running out of storage space on the existing volume. Always remember that you need to Expand an array before you can Extend a logical drive. Unlike Array expansion, the Operating System must be aware of changes to the logical drive size.
Steps we need to follow:-
Step 1: Check whether Server supports Array Expansion and Extension
Step 2: Create an Array and a logical drive using ACU
Step 3: Expand the array by adding a physical drive using ACU
Step 4: Extend the logical drive to use the extra space
Note: Here we are using HP ACU version 8.75. The server is installed with 3 unassigned physical drives. At first, we will create an Array using single HDD, then we will create a logical drive in RAID 0 configuration. Later, we will expand this array by adding a new physical drive to it. Once the array expansion is done, we will extend the logical drive.
Step 1: Check whether Server supports Array Expansion and Extension
Array Expansion and Logical drive extension is supported by your server only when the HP Smart Array Controller is installed with both Cache and battery. HP Smart Array controllers supports battery-backed write cache (BBWC) or flash-backed write cache (FBWC). As a first step, we need to confirm whether server is installed with both Cache and battery.
We have already discussed how to find out whether BBWC or FBWC installed on your HP Server. Please refer our guide for more information.
Guide: How to find out BBWC or FBWC installed on your HP Server
If there is no BBWC or FBWC installed on your Server, then you need to purchase and install it. Please check your Server Quickspecs and purchase the right BBWC/FBWC of your HP Smart Array Controller. Once you install BBWC/FBWC, both Expansion and Extension option will be available in ACU.
Step 2: Create an Array and a logical drive using ACU
I hope you are familiar with HP Array configuration utility. You could visit our Guide about HP Array configuration utility to understand how to launch ACU and create RAID using it.
Guide: Configure RAID using HP ACU on your HP Server
Here, we have 3 unassigned Hard drives available. We will use one hard drive, we will create an array and a logical drive in RAID 0. Let us see how we will do it 
1. Open Array Configuration utility on your Server
2. Select the Smart Array controller from the list
3. Now you will bet at the Main page of HP Array Configuration utility
4. We have 3 Unassigned Hard drives available. To create an array, click on Create Array
5. Select the number of HDDs that you wanted to be part of the Array. Here we selected one HDD.
6. Once you select the HDDs, click OK button and the Array will be created.
7. Here, the name of the new Array is SAS Array B.
8. To create a new logical drive, click on SAS Array B and click on Create Logical Drive.
9. Now select the Fault Tolerance (RAID) for the logical drive (RAID 0) and click on Save button.
10. Here, we have selected RAID 0 as we have created an Array using single HDD.
11. Now we have SAS Array B with one Logical drive (Name: Logical Drive 2).
12.The Logical drive is in RAID 0 and the size of the logical drive is 136.7 GB
Step 3: Expand the array by adding a physical drive
Let us expand the SAS Array B now. In Step 2 (check above), we created SAS Array B with one HDD. Now will go ahead and add another Physical HDD to SAS Array B. This process is called Expansion of an Array 
1. Click to select the Array name that you wish to Expand (here it is SAS Array B).
2. On the right pane of the ACU window, you will find an option called “Expand Array”.
3. Click on Expand Array
4. Select the new Physical HDD which needs to be added to the Array.
5.The Array Expansion will be initiated and transformation status is shown in ACU.
6. Please wait till the Array Expansion process is completed.
7. Here, Array Expansion added 136.7 GB of unused space to SAS Array B
Note: While the Smart Array controller is performing Array Expansion or Logical Drive Extension, additional Expansion and extensions are not allowed on this controller until this process is completed.
Step 4: Extend the Logical Drive to use the extra space
After the array expansion, we have 136.7 GB Unused space available under SAS Array B (See above picture). In order to utilize this added storage space, we need to extend the logical drive here.
1. Click to select the logical drive that wish to extend (Here Logical drive 2 is selected).
2. At the right pane of the ACU window, click Extend Logical drive.
3. Now you can select Maximum space available and click on Save button.
4. You may receive a warning message on screen, click on OK to continue.
5. Now the Logical drive 2 will be extended. You can find the transformation status in ACU
6. Please wait till the Logical drive extension is completed.
7. Once it is done, the screen will look like the one provided below.
8. Congrats, here the Logical drive 2 is extended and the size increased to 273.4 GB.
As per HP, an array expansion, logical drive extension, or logical drive migration takes about 15 minutes per gigabyte. While this process is occurring, no other expansion, extension, or migration can occur simultaneously on the same controller.
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got it working ! i extended the space using windows disk management !
hello
thanks
it’s very well
after I’ve created the logical drive, when I get to step 3 I dont see the option to expand array.
I’m using SATA drives
You need to check whether your server have both Smart Array Cache+battery. You need both cache and battery, otherwise, you wont find the expand option.
can i expand OS drive (C:) and what is the impact?
Which OS is installed in the OS drive? You can expand and extend logical drive and ideally it should not cause any issue. But have data backup incase if anything goes wrong
Is the process for expansion the same with the p400 raid card? We have the battery and the 256 cache installed but we are not seeing the option for expansion
You will need 512MB cache on P400, I also did not find Expand option in P400 with 256 Mb cache.
Does the p410 require the 512MB cache as well?
I have seen P410 works with 256MB cache
confirmed i have accelerato/cache and baterry pack etc om embede smart array 6i, i have expanded the array but when i come to extent the volume (step 4 number 3) and select save nothing hapens i dont get an error or saved configuration any ideas?
thanks in advance
Could you send me the ACU screenshots at tricksguide@gmail.com
Hope you are selecting the Logical drive when you try to extend it!
Ideally, this should work!
Hi,
will this also work with a RAID 5 Logical Drive?
Yes, it works for RAID 5 also.
can we able to extend the RAID5 logical drive ( P410i array controller = 4 disks(bay1,bay2,bay3,bay4) + 1 spare disk(bay5)) . Now i’ve new disk in bay 6 which needs to be extend with existing logical drive to have additional space . Its HP proliant 360 G6 , ESX4.0 installed . I can use only HP smartstart booting the server to get inside the ACU.
Yes, you can do that. It works.
Great stuff.
Checking to see if we have both Smart Array Cache+battery.
If we do, do you know if we can expand the space of a raid 5? When I set up the server I made the mistake of not using all of the available space.
Thanks!
RAID 5 can be expanded and extended. It works!
Hey SiRu, nice site here. I have a question regarding a setup. Actually, there is 3x 146Gb 15K hard drives in the cage with a P400 Smart Array (no battery yet). The plan is that i need to upgrade the Raid (5) with more capacity. So I need to do a “Logical extension” right?
First step would be to buy a battery, correct?
Second step, can I buy 4x 450Gb 15k and put one in the 4th slot of the cage and expand the raid?
Third step i was wondering about replacing one drive at a time until it’s done the Raid5 would be accros all drives instead of 3.
Can you help me out please? First time i do this.
Thanks
…Actually i think i need to replace the first 146Gb with 450Gb and so on until all 3 are all replaced with 450s. Then put the last 450Gb in slot 4 and make an expansion. Am i right?
Hi Bruno,
You can do this way as well. You can remove one 146GB, then add a 450GB. Wait till rebuild is completed, likewise, do it for all HDDs.By doing so, your Logical drive size will be increased to 450*2=900GB (One HDD space is gone for parity).
Note: You wont get 900GB, you get around 850GB
Hope this helps
SiRu
Hi Bruno,
Just answering your questions:
1. You need Cache+battery to do expansion and extension. If you only only256MB cache, (in very very rare changes) I have seen that we need 512MB, but it is not documented anywhere. So you basically need just battery.
2. You can add 450GB HDD to expand the array but it will only take 146 GB at this time and rest of the space will be wasted (I am not finished, check step 3)
3. Once you RAID 5 is expanded and extended. Now you can replace one 146 GB with a 450GB at a time and wait till it completes the Rebuild. Once its done, replace the second HDD with 450GB and again wait till its done. Continue doing this until you replace all 146GB but take atmost care that rebuild of each HDDs should be completed. Otherwise, you will lose all data.
4. Once all HDDs are replaced with 450GB, then you will get unused space in array as all the HDDs are of 450GB. Now you can extend it.
NOTE: This will take too much of time, please be aware.
Hope this will answer your query.
DO like our facebook fanpage or Google+ follow link
Regards
SiRu
Hi SiRu,
I just completed the above instructions, adding a 146 gb HDD to an existing array. I have the battery installed per above (Don’t get the Expand option if it is not recognized, we had a failed battery and learned this). I am using Array Configuration Utility 7.85.18.0 . My OS is Windows 2003, Enterprise Edition, SP2.
ACU shows the new increased size and when I select the array/logical drive 2 (Expanded/extended the D: drive) I get a Informational Status Message:
“Background parity initialization is currently queued or in progress on logical drive 2 (RAID 5 in Array B). If background parity initialization is queued, it will start when I/O is performed on the drive. When background parity initialization completes the performance of the logical drive will improve.”
So I didn’t see the “Transforming XXX%” message yet.
I can’t tell if it is queued or in progress. Does it start automatically or do I need to do something else? Right now DISK MANAGEMENT in the OS doesn’t show the new space on the Drive (D:). I Can see and access the data on Drive D: no problem.
Thanks in advance for any info!!!
Larry
Hi SiRu,
What I had to do was re-boot and the system now sees the Unallocated space.
I read I shouldn’t have to, but I did in my case
Now to get it added on to my existing drive in the OS 
Thanks!
Larry D.
Hi Larry,
I am glad to hear that you were able to fix the issue by restarting server, ideally restart of server is not needed.
However, I would like to recommend you to update the ACU installed on the server. The ACU 7.8 reported some errors related to RIS and updating the ACU solved the issue.
Please install ACU 8.7 or later on your Server.
Also regarding “Background parity initialization is currently” message, in many instances, this message will be shown and will stay there until unless you start using the logical drive. Once you start using the logical drive and start storing data in to it, this message will go away.
In short, there should be input/output operation happening on that logical drive/disk drive, then this message will be gone. My personal advice will be, DO NOT worry about it, its nothing.
Hope this information helps
Regards
SiRu
http://www.tricksguide.com
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Hi SiRu,
Thanks for the response! I managed to complete the entire task
Your info helps out immensely and I look forward to learning from you, the site and others that visit here.
I haven’t had any formal training since the 1990′s (NT4.0) and have had to rely on what I can read here and there and the experience of others I meet.
Thanks again!!
Larry D.
Hi Larry,
Glad to hear that you solve the issue yourself. Good work mate
Yes, you may leave a comment or use contact form (if it is off topic) anytime if you need help related HP Servers. If I can answer it, I will help you. I am not an expert thought.
Cheers mate
SiRU
Hi SiRu,
We have 2 DL 365 G1 boxes, specs are as below,
ACU ver – 7.85.18.0
Controller – Smart Array P400i
Firmware Version – 4.12
Cache Status – Enabled
Memory on Controller – 256 MB
Nattrey pack Count – 1
We have 2 SAS RAID 1+0 Arrays configured, the box has 6 slots, Is there a possibility to extend our 2nd Array (SAS Array B), The expand Array option is not visible/available on the
ACU console.
Hi Avi,
May I know how many HDDs are installed in each servers? If you have 1+0, then I hope you have 4 HDDs are installed per server. If you add another 2 HDDs, then you should get an expand option in ACU.
You may update the ACU to latest, the version you use is way old.
Firmware is very old, please use firmware 7.22 (B) 11 Jun 2012
Then add 2 new HDDs to the server (As its RAID 1+0, you need it in pairs, HDDs should be same type (SAS) and size/capacity of HDDs should be same or higher of the existing HDDs),
Note: I have noticed that Expand option is not activated when the controller has only 256MB cache, where as 512 MB cache enabled this feature. However, try above said steps and if it is still not working probably we will need an upgrade to cache
Hi
I want to reduce the size of the array, from 8 disks to 7. I know the ACU can support this but what about the Windows partition on the array, will that magically be reduced too? Have you ever done this?
thanks,
Joe
If you want to reduce the size of an array, then you have to use Shrink Array option. You need HP Smart Array Advanced Pack if you are using newer HP controllers. Shrink Array operation allows you to remove drives from an existing array. Note: Shrink Array will only be operational if the array has free space equal to or greater than the size of one or more physical drives. ALso note that this option will not be available always even if you have Cache+battery+license!!
Ideally, this should be done in offline. Though you may try online, it should work.
Thanks. I think we will do it offline, it is a very important server!
Ok, that would be better.
Dear Sir,
We have HP DL-370G7 Server with P410i array controller (with 512MB with BBWC)
(Operation System – Solaris 10 X86)
We plan to make “online expanding RAID 5 disk array ”
but our server vendor told us that “This feature does not support Solaris OS”
Is that true?
Thanks.
Eric
Eric,
Ideally, this works on Windows and Linux. I am not an expert in Solaris, so not in a great position to answer it. Not sure how the file system and logical drive structures are stored in Solaris.
SiRu
Hi SiRu,
We have this condition (I will send you some snapshots regarding this condition to tricksguide@gmail.com) :
1. 3 SAS 72GB drive configured as Raid 5 (done by former IT)
2. The ACU version is 8.30.5.0.
3. OS using Windows Server 2003 standard Edition SP 2
4. Disks in Windows 2003 configured as Basic Disk
What we want to do:
1. Expand the drive capacity as you can see at the screenshot, we have added a new
72GB drive (unassigned drive)
2. The expanded drive would increase the capacity of drive D as it is almost running out of space
Question:
1. Could you give me advice on how to do this
2. Do I really need a full backup of all the data and the system
3. Could I perform the expansion process while the users are still using the server
Thanks in advance.
Hi,
I checked the screenshot you have sent and I find that you do not have battery installed on the server. Moreover, the cache status is showing as permanently disabled, it means, there is some issue with Cache as well. We need both Cache+battery (BBWC) for Expansion and Extension to work.
I have written an article on Expansion, please click this link
You can perform Expansion while peoples are logged in but the performance will be impacted. So I recommend doing this on weekends. Also in ACU, Under Controller settings, you have an option called “Transformation or Expansion Priority”, You can set this to HIGH if you want expansion to happen fast.
Remember: it takes approx 15 minutes per GB (When you do expansion).
Hope this will answer your query.
Regards
SiRu
Thanks for your prompt reply.
Just wonder, if I fix all the problems (battery and cache), would I be able to expand only the drive D ? and how do I do that ?
And is it possible to perform all that process without loosing any data (normally)?
I know that we could not guarantee it and should do backup first.
Thanks again for the help.
Regards,
Susanto
I have a question. I have a HP blade server that was setup way before I got here. They have an attached disk array configured for the server with 6×146 GB drives installed. The server is being used as a file server. We have been running out of disk space left and right. After doing some research on the system I noticed that they had taken the disk array and configured 3 Raid 1 sets. So basically we are losing alot of disk space. We purchased new 600 GB drives to install in the arrray. I have done so and am now at the point where I can expand the arrays. I wanted to know if I could convert these 3 Raid 1 arrays to a single Raid 5 instead. I currently have 6×600 GB drives in place now and have not expanded the arrays to use up the drive space. Your help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Hi Mark, sorry for late reply. I am on vocation and do not have access to my emails.
Regarding your query, let me explain what I understood. You have 3 RAID 1 (So total 6 HDDs). Instead of 3 RAID 1, you wanted to make it as a single RAID 5 without data loss. Am I right?
If I am right, then I would like to inform you that we could not make a single RAID 5 by combining all 3*RAID 1.
Workaround:
Add the new 600 GB HDD a RAID 1 (this process is called as array expansion process). Now the RAID 1 will be converted to RAID 5 automatically. Then extend the logical drive.
But remaining RAID 1 will remain as RAID 1 on your server.
Solution:
Have data backup, delete all arrays and re-create from scratch. This is a pain, but will help you in long run.
Regards
SiRu
Thanks Siru. No worry on the late reply. I understand the vacation thing. I figured that was what I was goiong to have to do to my array. I just have been looking to be sure because the sales guys, yes I said sales guy, told me it could be done. I said no it can´´t. If he can prove it to me I would do it. Now I am just trying to figure out my best way to do this because this server is my file server for all the user profiles on my system. They are using roaming profiles on this system, which I do not like, and they have all the users in seperate organization units which makes it even more interesting.
This will be highly impossible, please share the idea provided by the “Sales guy”. I would be interested to learn that..
Well like I said, it was a sales guy. Not too sure he is all that technical. He basically stated that after I installed the new 600 GB drives and they rebuilt themselves in each array. I could then use the Array Configuration software to convert the 3 seperate Raid 1 arrays to a single Raid 5. I told him this is impossible since each Raid 1 used 2 disks so there are not free disks available to me.
Cool
I’m working with a G1 blade running two 146GB SAS drives in RAID-1.
I partitioned the drives via the ACU as follow: 25GB for OS, 80GB for data, 31GB for SQL logs.
Vendor came back and said we don’t need SQL data/log partitions because they are using SQL express.
based on what I’m reading here. I should be able to blow-away and re-assign the 80GB & 31GB volumes and use that space to resize the 25GB to the maximum capacity of ~140GB correct?
As you have unused space in he same array (once you delete the SQL logs drive), you may try doing Logical drive extension and ideally it should work.
Dear siru,
I using Raid 5 with 3 x 450GB in ML350 G6. My question is:-
1) When I set up the server its convert all the 3 HDD to 1 logical drive and tital capacity is 836GB, when happen to the balance of the space and how can I make each HDD as my logical drive example drive d, drive e, and f?
Thanks you
As you are using RAID 5 using 3 HDDs, the total amount of space you will get will be (N-1), that is 2 HDDs. One of the HDD space is used for RAID 5 parity. So you will get approx 900GB but practically you will get only 850 GB or less. So everything is normal in your server.
If you want 3 drives in your Operating system (Like C, D and E)), then when you create logical drives in RAID 5, you should not choose entire space.. Instead there is will be an option called “OTHER” and you need to enter the logical drive capacity over there..
I have also sent a screenshot to your email, please check it.
Hi Siru,
I want know if you can help me with this doubt. We have a proliant server with 3 disk of 72 GB and 1 additional of 146GB. The first 3 disks are in Raid5 , and we want add the Raid with the additional disk (146 ), we already have Cache+battery (BBWC) and in ACU we have the option to expand the array. Actually, we have 2 drives C: (20 GB) and D (106 GB ) but with the space unassigned we want expand both drives , my question is if we can do this task while the server is working?? working with ACU from windows 2003 R2? obviously we now that for each GB we nedd 15 minutes.
If this solution works, we can redimension the drives with disk windows manager?
Thanks in advance.
Expansion and extension works while the server is UP and running but I never recommend it because the server performance will be impacted. Also I recommend you to add another 72 GB HDD rather than 146 GB because you will be wasting lot of space of your 146GB HDD. Remember: The array will only use 72 GB from your 146 GB, remaining space is wasted and cannot be used for any other purpose.
Yes, You have reason, we will waste a lot space for the disk. We will to buy another new disk additonal (72 GB). Thak you for all the support.
Glad i could help you..
I have successfully able to expand logical drive through “hpacucli”. But how can I make this visible from OS end? Any idea. OS version RHEL 6.3 (x86_64).
Before expansion:
Smart Array P400 in Slot 3 (sn: P61630D9SUI5XY)
array A (SAS, Unused Space: 0 MB)
logicaldrive 1 (68.3 GB, RAID 1, OK)
physicaldrive 1I:1:1 (port 1I:box 1:bay 1, SAS, 72 GB, OK)
physicaldrive 1I:1:2 (port 1I:box 1:bay 2, SAS, 72 GB, OK)
array B (SAS, Unused Space: 0 MB)
logicaldrive 2 (273.4 GB, RAID 5, OK)
physicaldrive 1I:1:3 (port 1I:box 1:bay 3, SAS, 146 GB, OK)
physicaldrive 1I:1:4 (port 1I:box 1:bay 4, SAS, 146 GB, OK)
physicaldrive 2I:1:5 (port 2I:box 1:bay 5, SAS, 146 GB, OK)
unassigned
physicaldrive 2I:1:6 (port 2I:box 1:bay 6, SAS, 146 GB, OK)
physicaldrive 2I:1:7 (port 2I:box 1:bay 7, SAS, 146 GB, OK)
After expansion:
Smart Array P400 in Slot 3 (sn: P61630D9SUI5XY)
array A (SAS, Unused Space: 0 MB)
logicaldrive 1 (68.3 GB, RAID 1, OK)
physicaldrive 1I:1:1 (port 1I:box 1:bay 1, SAS, 72 GB, OK)
physicaldrive 1I:1:2 (port 1I:box 1:bay 2, SAS, 72 GB, OK)
array B (SAS, Unused Space: 0 MB)
logicaldrive 2 (546.8 GB, RAID 5, OK)
physicaldrive 1I:1:3 (port 1I:box 1:bay 3, SAS, 146 GB, OK)
physicaldrive 1I:1:4 (port 1I:box 1:bay 4, SAS, 146 GB, OK)
physicaldrive 2I:1:5 (port 2I:box 1:bay 5, SAS, 146 GB, OK)
physicaldrive 2I:1:6 (port 2I:box 1:bay 6, SAS, 146 GB, OK)
physicaldrive 2I:1:7 (port 2I:box 1:bay 7, SAS, 146 GB, OK)
Below OS File system needs to be increase:
[root@seclog02 ~]# df -hT /seclog
Filesystem Type Size Used Avail Use% Mounted on
/dev/mapper/vg01-lvol01
ext3 269G 140G 116G 55% /data1
[root@seclog02 ~]#
Please help
I am working on this and will get back to you.
I got some information and I have sent an email to you, please check the attachment.
Cheers
Hello,
Do you know how can i rebuild a raid 5? (i6 controller) I mean have a 3disk raid and 1 disk died.
Changed the disk, but the raid did not rebuilt itself. so now i have 2 disk in raid 5 (no fault tolerant).
The old disk what died had the SCSI ID 12. Don’t know how. The new got the ID 4 (other disk in raid 2 ID 2 and 3).
Is there any way to change the SCSI ID? Or can i force to rebuilt the raid with extending it?
Thanks in advance.
Will need to research, did not see this issue in past.. I will get back.. I need time.. Thanks
Ideally SCSI Ids should not be changed because it is associated with the HDD bay number of your server. In this case, I would recommend you to use the latest version of firmware. The latest version of firmware fixed following issues:
1. Changed the SCSI ID detection algorithm for SCSI disk drive that unexpectedly changes its SCSI ID, in configurations involving duplex backplanes
2. Included additional changes in the SCSI ID detection algorithm for server configurations involving duplex backplanes.
The latest version is: 2.84 (A) (15 Jul 2008). If you already installed latest version of firmware, then it seems like the RIS of the logical drive is gone bad. Only trial n error method you can follow is install the new HDD in all bays and see whether it can pick the correct SCSI IDs.. I wont recommend this method, but you may try.
Cheers
SiRu
Thanks for the answer.
I will try to update the firmware. now its on 2.68. I hope it will solve the problem. Don’t want to rebuild the entire raid.
I will write the results after we done the changes.
Please let me know how it goes.. best of luck
I updated the driver… no effect.
Here is the server raid config (sorry for the german language set – 2 new disk in top):
Smart Array 6i in integriertem Steckplatz
Nicht zugeordnete Laufwerke (2)
Interner Laufwerkkäfig in Gehäuse 1
146.8 GB Parallel – SCSI Laufwerk auf Port 1 : SCSI-ID 4
146.8 GB Parallel – SCSI Laufwerk auf Port 1 : SCSI-ID 5
Parallel – SCSI Array A – 1 logische(s) Laufwerk(e)
Logisches Laufwerk 1 (67.8 GB, RAID 1)
72.8 GB Parallel – SCSI Laufwerk auf Port 2 : SCSI-ID 0
72.8 GB Parallel – SCSI Laufwerk auf Port 2 : SCSI-ID 1
Interner Laufwerkkäfig in Gehäuse 2
72.8 GB Parallel – SCSI Laufwerk auf Port 2 : SCSI-ID 0
72.8 GB Parallel – SCSI Laufwerk auf Port 2 : SCSI-ID 1
Parallel – SCSI Array B – 1 logische(s) Laufwerk(e)
(Interim-Neuerstellung) Logisches Laufwerk 2 (273.5 GB, RAID 5)
146.8 GB Parallel – SCSI Laufwerk auf Port 1 : SCSI-ID 2
146.8 GB Parallel – SCSI Laufwerk auf Port 1 : SCSI-ID 3
??? Parallel – SCSI Laufwerk auf Port 1 : SCSI-ID 12
This last SCSI 12 is the problem. (right now all slot in the server has a disk)
Can’t get the disk to take over for the fault one.
It was not the driver, it is the firmware of controller. Did you update the same?
Yes. Firmware update under windows.
Ok, I am working on this.. Seems little complex now.. I will see what I can do. OK
Hi SiRu
Could you help me?
I have a HP p400 patched with the latest firmware and using the latest ACU installed in a G5
I have created a 72GB Mirror (1) as Array A (for the ESXI OS) I then added two 146GB Mirror (1) (for the Data) the controller set this as Array A and changed the initial 72GB Mirror to array B.
As a result I can’t boot into the OS unless I remove the 146GB Mirror
Do you know of a work around?
Regards
Harry
This option was unavailable to P400 controllers, however you may check once.
Press F8 at server POST and enter ORCA of the controller. See whether you have an option called Select boot volume available.. If available, you can select logical drive 2 as boot volume.
Other workaround will be,,, check the OS boot loader and see whether you have any option to change partition over there.. I am not an expert on Vmware.
Regards
SiRu
Hi
I having problem with my server when i change a new hdd with the corrupt hdd for the server. When hdd is rebuilding the array and it is almost 40%, when i check the monitor is on sleep. I just push the space bar to check the percentage rebuilding. After that blue screen show and error and all my server data already lost. How can it be like that.
I hope you can help me.
I need more information, which server, RAID level, firmware, number of HDDs etc. Can you send ADU report of your server at tricksguide[at]gmail[dot]com
Hi SiRu,
first of all, i would like to thank you for all the time you must be putting into your blog, helping other people with their problems.
In my case, i have a remote site (which is only accessible with a plane) and I need to expand the Raid capacity because it’s a file server with very short space available.
My primary concern is about the time it is gonna take for doing the whole process. Let me resume what I have onsite:
Server is a HP ProLiant ML310 G5
Windows Server 2003 x64
Raid 5 with 3x 146gb 15k hard drives and a slot available free
Cache is looking like this:
Mise en cache
Module de cache présent Oui
Etat du cache OK
Taux de cache 100 % de lecture / 0 % d’écriture
Mémoire cache totale disponible 208 Mo
Taille totale du cache 256 Mo
Nombre de modules de batterie 0
Activer le cache d’écriture lorsque la batterie n’est pas présente ou pas complètement chargée Désactivé
So there is no battery in yet. I purchased a BBWC for my P400 controller which is not installed yet.
What I would like to do is to add all 4 new HDs 450Gb SAS 15k to the Array.
I would like to know if, first, is possible to expand my actual config to 4 HDs.. i guess it is.
But how to perform that and from your personnal opinion, would you bring back the server to your office to do this or would you go on site and probably stay there a day or two. (Don’t know how much time it would take).
Also like I said, it’s a file server so the shutdown should take lesser time than possible! lol
If you can provide me a guideline and tips for achieving this, it would be very appreciated.
Thanks for your help and keep feeding the community with your knowledge!
Bruno
Hi Bruno,
I understand that you are using ML310 G5 server, as per the specification, this server can support up to 4 hot plug SAS or SATA drives (LFF HDDs). I understand that you are using 15K SAS HDDs.
The steps you need to follow is provided below.
1. Install Battery to the P400 controller. Ideally, we will need 512MB cache but 256MB may also work.
2. Backup all the data from the server. Better safe than sorry.
3. Now its very tricky.. please take atmost care. This is a manual method.
4. Remove one of the 146 GB HDD from the server (example bay 3), then add 450 GB SAS to the same bay (bay 3). Array and logical drive will rebuild to the new 450 GB HDD. Wait till entire rebuild process is completed.. Very important.
5. Once rebuild is completed, remove the next 146 GB HDD from bay 2. Then add 450 GB SAS hdd to the same bay (bay 2). Array will again rebuild to the new 450 GB HDD. Wait till entire rebuild process is completed..
6. Now remove the 146 GB HDD which is installed in bay number 1 of the server. Add the 450 GB to bay 1 and allow it to rebuild the Arrays and logical drive. Again wait till this process is 100% completed..
Now:
If all the above said process is followed carefully, now you have an array which consists of 3*450 GB HDDs. In Array Configuration utility (ACU), select the logical drive and use extend the logical drive option. Once it is done, use the OS based tool (In Windows, we use Disk management) to add the new space to the partitions.
Complete all the steps provided above. Now if you wish to add the fourth 450GB HDD to the array, then you can follow below said steps to do expansion and extension.
http://www.tricksguide.com/how-to-expand-array-extend-logical-drive-raid-hp-acu.html
Note: This process will take a lot of time.. If anyone is available at site, then you can use iLO of the server and do all these task remotely.
Cheers
SiRu
Hi Siru,
I’m familiar with this process but need to know if there is a limitation to how many times you can extend the HP 400 array – we have local disk that needs a 2nd expansion to support a backup of SAN DB on this server.
Thanks,
Andy
There is no limitation on number of expansion and extension you can do one controller. When expansion or extension take place, you cannot perform any other operation on that controller.. If you make the question simpler and explain it better, probably I will be able to answer it better.
SiRu,
To be more specific; I’m planning a change to a server ML570 G4 with 12 hard disk slots currently 6 x 146 gig, I’ve extended the logical drive once and need to do this again, I kinda remember the Array Configuration Utility saying that I could only do a set number of times but forget what that set number was.
Also a good trick is to replace all drives one at a time with lagers disks and wait for each one to resync before replacing the next. Once all drives are changed then you’ll see the extra space to extend the array!,
Andy
Manual rebuild is also a good idea.. But will take lot of time..
Hi SiRu, first of all, congratulations! Your posts are great. I have some questions, I hope you can help me. I have 2 HP Servers, Proliant ML350 G6, with a Smart Array P410i. I’m sending you a screenshot of my both ACU screens to tricksguide@gmail.com.
Currently I have a RAID-1 in both servers, and I want to add an extra disk to each one of them, because they are running out of space.
As you can see in the screenshots, I only see the Array Accelerator Present, with “OK” Cache Status, but no Battery… I saw in your post “Find out Array Accelerator and Battery installed on your server” that you wrote a Note that says: Though battery is a must for performing Array Expansion and Logical Drive Extension, only the Cache is needed to enable RAID 5 functionality on HP Smart Array Controller.
I’m a newbie at this, so my questions are:
1) Do I need the Baterry to add the new disk if i’m still going to use a RAID-1 or not?
2) If my current Array has 2 disks of 146 GB in each server and I have two 600 GB new ones, can I use them? One on each server? Or it has to be of the same size? What could happen if I do this?
Thanks! I hope you can help me!
Hi
Sorry for late reply.
If you want to migrate your existing RAID 1 to RAID 5 (without any data loss), then you need Cache + battery. Because Migration need Cache+battery
But if you are ready to delete your existing RAID 1 Array and re-create a fresh new RAID 5, then you need only Cache. To create a new RAID 5, you need only Cache.
Question: Do I need the Baterry to add the new disk if i’m still going to use a RAID-1 or not?
Answer: You need cache+ battery to add a new HDD to RAID 1 array. This is capped Array expansion. Moreover, when you add a new HDD to RAID 1, it will automatically become RAID 5. Because RAID 1 cannot be on 3 HDDs, so it will automatically Migrate to RAID 5.
Question If my current Array has 2 disks of 146 GB in each server and I have two 600 GB new ones, can I use them? One on each server? Or it has to be of the same size? What could happen if I do this?
If you add the new 600 GB HDDs to your existing RAID array (RAID 1 = 146GB HDDs), then only 146GB from 600 GB will be available to you. Rest 434GB will be wasted and cannot be used.
Hope it answers your questions.
Cheers
SiRu
SiRu,
Will the data be availible during the Expansion? I have a 1.8 TB Raid 5 set on a 2003 R2 box that I need to add another 1 TB too… Jus curios if during the expansion if users will be able to access the shares/data?
Tim
Data is available. But I recommend not to have any input/output operation when you do expansion.
If users are accessing data while you do EXPANSION, then change the Transformation Priority to Medium or low under Controller Configuration in ACU.
Siru I got the drive expanded then extended within ACU I see that I have the full expected amount of disk space under the array
Went from 3 to 4 1TB drives in a raid 5 under a P410 sitting on Svr 2003 R2 sp2, ACU Shows partion size of 1.8 TB and ACU array shows total usable space of 3.6TB and used space at 3.6 TB. I rebooted and even attempted to use diskpart to extended the partion but nothing changed…
Suggestions?
Computer Mgmt show the disk as Dynamic and simple volume
Tim, I would need the ADU report to get some more information.
May I know whether you are expanding the BOOT partition of OS, I hope you are aware that Windows boot partition will not go more than 2 TB. There is also limitation from MBR of HDDs. Please do a google search to find more information.
Regards
Siru, I am not expanding the Boot partion… this seperate set of disk only containing data, I was aware that the boot partion only supports 2 TB, I only have one partion set for these drives and I am trying to get full adavanatgage of the entire 3 TB +/- I should have (4 1TB drives in a Raid5).
I have emailed the ADU report to tricksguide@gmail.com
Hi,
I checked ADU report, logical drive 2 is in RAID 5 and contains 4*1TB HDDs (Bay number 3,4,5 and 6). So ideally you should have 3 TB logical drive (4-1 TB because this is RAID 5) (Remember: you actually wont even get 3 TB, you will get somewhere near 2.7 TB)
Could you send me screenshots from disk management page, I wana see where the newly added space gone.
Please send 2 or 3 screenshots.. I will check again and see what we can do
God Bless
SiRu
What I am thinking is.. Not sure whether it is a solution. In Disk management, for Disk 1, you will need to make it GPT.
Right click on Disk 1, you will get some options.. I don’t remember it.
Once its GPT, the extra space should show..
This is what I think
I checked Microsoft KB article 2581408 and I find this info
“Capacity beyond 2TB cannot be addressed by Windows if the disk is initialized using the MBR partitioning scheme. For example, with a 3TB single disk initialized with MBR, Windows can create partitions up to the first 2TB, but the remaining capacity cannot be addressed and therefore cannot be utilized”
Ref: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/2581408
Let me know what happens
HI, Thx for ur guid Siru.. i wanted 2 things to know … 1)when i want to extend or modify or view the hp configuration it prompts me for admin password .. which is the same password which is used for server login i Guess, but the server always keeps on changing the password so the 1st password its heard to remember.. so any thing to reset the password for HP ACU.??… 2)So what ever configuration is made using HP ACU… Does those configuration are displayed at local disk management?? cos if its Mirrored/RAID1 volumes created with HP ACU then does it display as Mirrored volume in disk management??? plz help Thanks in advance.
Please reinstall ACU using the latest version and see whether same issue happens. ACU needs an ADministrator account and may ask for user name and password (In very few cases).
ACU shows information from Smart Array controller but same information is NOT available in Disk management. Disja management will not say it is mirrored or not.
We have a HP proliant ML570 G4 server running Linux red had serving as our Oracle production server. Our current array configuration consists of 4 logical drives, one Raid 1 array serving as the system array (2 physical drives, one 72GB one 146GB), two Raid 5 arrays with a hot spare (4 physical drives each array) and one Raid 5 with no hot spare (4 physical drives). We have 4 unused slots for drives. I would like to extend the Raid 5 arrays. I know to use the array configuration utility (hpacucli command), to achieve this but want to confirm that this is possible (that the Red Had os will recognize the expanded drive space) i remeber having a problem adding to an existing logical drive on an hp DL380 g4 running windows 2003 and had to use 3rd party software to expand the logical drive within disk manager. The Array controller installed in the ML570 G4 is a smart array P600. Any info you can provide will be greatly appriciated. Thanks.
Andrew C.
Hi Andrew Cacciatore,
I will update you as soon as I have an answer.
Regards
Thanks for looking into this. I actually decieded to create a new logical drive with the four physical drives using the hpacucli command. I was successful in creating the new logical drive and it shows in command: ctrl all show config, but it does not show up in the Red Hat lvm (disk manager) i’m much more versed in Windows than i am in Linux. How do i get the OS to recognize the new logical drive? Thanks again for any info you can provide.
Andrew C.
Hi Andrew,
I got some information from my colleague and he says that you need to use FDISK in Linux. I would recommend you to check google search regarding FDISK command in Linux.
I think it helps
Cheers
SiRu
We have a dl 380 g6
with 4 drive (4) 750 gig drives raid 5
p410i with bbwc confirmed in acu
with c & d drive
we would like to add a 1tb drive & extend d
but the option to is not available
would this be because the drive hasn’t been inserted?
I understand we will not get the full use of the drive.
Thanks
Please send me the ADU report at tricksguide@gmail.com. once you are done, please leave a comment here. I will need to check the logs.
I’ve sent the ADU report
If you have not added the HDD yet, then you will never find the Expand and extend option.
I was thinking you have installed the HDDs already.. If not, please add the HDD first and then you should have option.
Remember: You have to buy SATA HDDs as your existing HDDs are SATA.
As per my understanding you are using 750 GB SATA 7.2k rpm, 3.5 inch, LFF Hot-Plug Drive on your server.
I checked the ADU report you have sent and I find that the HDDs installed in Bay 5 and 6 is not detected.
Remember: Though your server has 6 LFF HDD bays (4HDD bays+2HDD bays), you need to check whether your server has optional LFF drive cage is already installed and cables are connected to the integrated Smart Array controller.
Please refer below said document: http://h18004.www1.hp.com/products/quickspecs/13234_div/13234_div.HTML
Check section:
Hot Plug LFF SAS 12.0TB 6 x 2TB (with optional LFF drive cage)
I am not sure whether you have installed optional LFF drive cage. You have 512MB Cache and battery. But the HDDs are not detected on your server. Please check the bay 5&6 Cage and the cables.
Though it is not important here, please update the P410i controller firmware to the latest version, i think 5.7 is the latest, It fixed a lot of issues.
I checked the ADU report you have sent and it shows an interesting factor
The HDD you just installed on your server (1 TB HDD) is a SAS HDD. But your existing array contains only SATA HDDs (4*750 GB SATA).
You cannot add a SAS HDD to an existing SATA Array. Mixing of Hard drive types in the same array is not supported.
So what is the solution:
You need to use a SATA HDD on your server as your existing HDDs are SATA. Please use a SATA HDD and things will work.
Cheers
Regards
SiRu
Hi,
I hope you are using Windows 2008 OS here. If not, please correct me.
It seems like you have used your first logical drive which is greater than 2 TB.
Below Microsoft article speaks about limitation Boot volume when size is more than 2 TB. As your boot volume uses MBR, this limitation applies.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/2581408
For more than 2 TB limitation, you need to convert your Disk0 to GPT. But I wont recommend you to convert your boot volume to GPT.
SiRu, thanks for your reply, another question,
It is possible to use both of my 600 GB’s HDD in One server? I mean, what if I put them both on one server and create a new Array, so I have 1 array with my 146 GB HDD, and another one with the 600 GB HDD? Could that be possible?
Thanks!
This is 200% possible and you can do it.
Install 2 HDDs on one server, create an array and logical drive (RAID 1), This works.
Hope it answer your question.
Hi SiRu
Thank you for this excellent site. What a superb resource.
I have a quick question, similar to one above:
ProLiant ML350 G5, E200i controller, accelerator + battery installed.
RAID 1 array of 2 x 136GB-10K-SAS drives
Is it possible to add one more 136GB drive, expand the array and convert to RAID5?
I’ve not tried yet but I’m wondering what order this can be done, as I can’t convert to RAID5 first (as it needs at least 3 drives) and I can’t expand the RAID1 array to 3 disks as RAID1 needs an even number…
Any advice would be appreciated.
thanks and best regards
Jon
Hi Jon,
if the E200i Controller has 128 MB Cache, then you can do Expansion of RAID 1. If the Cache installed is only 64 MB, then it may not work.
When you Expand a RAID 1 by adding one more HDD, it will automatically transform to RAID 5. Because RAID 1 cannot be on 3 HDDs, so controller force the array to Migrate.
Ideally, this method works and I have done it in the past.
Best of luck
SiRu
I have p410i with 512mb and battery.
In the ACU i see SAS Array A – 2 logical drives with a RAID 5
If i select show physical view i see the 3 drivers but in the 3rd drive is not in the logical drive.
What can i do to bring the 3rd drive to the raid 5 as a logical drive.
Thanks in advance.
Hi George,
To check this issue further, please send me the screenshots (both logical view and Physical View). Also generate the ADU report and email at tricksguide [at] gmail [dot] com
Hey SiRu,
I have 3 SAS drives of 1TB each running in Raid 5. I created 2 logical drives. The first being 150G for the OS (windows 2008R2). the second of 1.7TB for Data. I now have a 4th drive that i would like to add the array. I added the drive and expanded the Array, I then proceeded with extending the 2nd logical drive with the unused space available….all work out well in the ACU.
but in windows i was not able to extend the volume on disk one …it would come up with error not enough disk space..so i rebooted the server….upon rebooting..the extend the volume option was now grayed out..so i had to delete the volume, then convert to GPT and only then did windows see the volume as one drive… i proceeded to convert to dynamic and then formatted NTFS.
did i forget something or skip a step…to why i had to delete the volume….i remember in the past older versions of ACU….it working on the fly.
thanks
Fab
Hi, I was on vacation for three weeks, sorry for the delay.
As per my understanding, you have created 2 Logical drives: 150 GB and 1.7 TB, in Windows it will be shown as C drive and D drive. Later, you extended the 2nd logical drive, that is your D drive in Windows but disk management is not giving you an option.
My question here is: Did you try extend Disk 1 or did you try for Disk 2, I mean, for which drive? C drive or D drive in Disk management?
I reason could be because MBR limitation of 2 TB as the maximum primary partition. Apart from that, I do not find any other reason for this. What you did was right.
Regards
SiRu
Will an array expansion run any faster if the server is taken offline? We have an HP Proliant ML 350 G3 with a Smare Array 641 Controller. I am currently doing an array expansion and would like to know if the expansion would run any faster if I booted the server and went into the array configuration untility on boot up?
Hi, I was on vacation for three weeks, sorry for the delay.
From my experience, its faster when we do in offline.
i have a problem that is somewhat related to this.
hp server with a B110i controller.. no battery no nothing…i know.. it’s a low end wannabe server
it originally had 2x250GB drives in RAID1 and 1 logical drive created on it. and i wanted to add some space to it.
i replaced the drives one by one with 750GB drives and waited each time for the RAID to rebuild. all went fine.
what i ended up with is an array with a logical drive of 250GB in RAID1 (as it originally was on the old HDDs) and 950GB of unused space and no way to either add this space to the existing logical drive neither create a new logical drive out of this unused space. there is no option to do anything with this unused space in ACU except the “More information” button. and i can only remove the existing logical drive what i can’t do since it contains the system partition.
running the latest controller drivers and ACU.
OS is WinServer 2008 R2
is there another way to do this? am i missing someting obvious? or is this not supported on this controler?
This is basically not supported by B110i controller. Sorry
Hi SiRu,
I have 2x DL380 G5 (P400) and 1x DL360 G6 (P410) all with 256MB cache but no battery.
All drives configured same:
Array1: 2x 146GB SAS in RAID1 (OS)
Array2: 2x 146GB SAS in RAID1 (DATA)
Array 2 is at capacity, I need to replace with 300GB drives.
Can I replace them 1 at a time, allowing to rebuid and then expand and extend? How long is the rebuild, expand & extend process?
HP say this is not possible, battery or not!
Many thanks
Do not blame HP for this.. I love HP, you know
This is possible provided you need to have battery.. Please replace one HDD at a time, let it rebuild completely, then you will have a logical drive 146GB on two 300GB HDDs.. You will also find un-unsed space.. Now you need to extend logical drive for that you need battery..
Regards
SiRu
Thank you so much for this guide! I am new to servers and learning a lot. This guide helped me when I wanted to convert a RAID 1 into a RAID 0 and I needed to merge in the extra hard drive space.
Thank you
Hi,
I was on vacation for three weeks, sorry for the delay.
I am glad to hear that I was able to assist you.
Regards
SiRu
Hi SiRu,
is there any way to combine 8 drives on each of the two controllers in a DL380 into one large array?
Alan
If the server is installed with P410 controller, then you can use HP SAS Expander and combine HDDs of both controller to one.
Hi Siru,
Every time I Google RIAD stuff, your site and name comes up in top few links. Just thought to say hello and also I have a question to ask.
For my home office, I have ML110 G7 server with built in raid controller B110i with 2 x 500GB drives configured as RAID1. I actually want more storage so need to upgrade it. Since with this setup I cannot migrate to raid5, I have decided to buy HP Smart Array P222/512 with FBWC.
Is it compatible with my ML110 G7?
Secondly changing/adding a raid controller would be completely a new job for me. Is there a way to keep the existing OS going rather than reinstalling?
This is ESXi host by the way but this is my reinstallation is my secondary concern and I would be happy to do that as long as I know I can use P222 in my server. Thank you.
Hi
I already replied to your question, however officially P212 is not supported by M110 G7. P212 is basically aimed for newer gen8 Servers.
You may P212 or P410 controller on your ML110 G7 Server.
Regarding migrating to new controller, try not to change the bay number of existing HDDs and mostly it may work. But I always recommend you to have data backup because your OS partition may crash if required storage controller driver is not already installed.
Regards
SiRu
Hi Siru,
We have a ML350 G6, P410, 512MB and battery.
RAID 5, 4 HDD 2TB SATA and 4 logical volume (1 volume for OS and 3 spanned volumes for data)
We added 2 disk to the same array but the expansion failed (Error 1769)
We can’t access to the spanned volume because logical volume failure
The option is “Press the F2 key to accept the data loss and re-enable the logical drives” :’(
Can we recover the data?
Seems like you got below provided error message “1769-Slot X Drive Array – Drive(s) Disabled Due to Failure During Capacity Expansion”
In this case, you will need to press F2 and continue. If any logical drives are disabled, in ACU, select logical drive and check whether you have option called “Re-enable Logical drive”.
That would be the only option you have now
Regards
Hi SiRu,
the “Expand” Button on my Server is missing in ACU, too.
I want to expand an Array on a P411/1GB FBWC Controller.
The Controller resides in a DL380 G7 Server. The Controller is connected to a D2700 Disk Enclosure with 7x 1 TB Raid5 + 1 HotSpare SATA
I want to add a new 1 TB Disk, which is shown in ACU as unassigned drive
Cache is installed an Status OK (1024MB)
FBWC is installed an Status OK
I have no Idea why i can`t see the “Expand” button
regards,
Marko
Please send me the ADU report and I will look in to it. If you have screenshots, please share it as well.
Please send email at tricksguide at gmail dot com.
Hi SiRu,
i fixed it. Before we orderd the new disks, our it-seller said, that HP replaced our existing disk-models with a new model, wich is 100% compatible with the existing disks. So we orderd the new Disks.
But this was not correct. The existing disks are 1TB SATA 3GB Models and the new ones are 1TB 2Port SAS 6GB Modesl. It `s not possible to mix SATA + SAS in one Array.
The disks will be replaced by the it-seller tomorrow !
regards,
Marko
Get a replacement SATA hdd n all will be fine
Hi,
my server is HP DL380 G7 which was having 146×2 SAS hard drives.
Our main purpose is to extend the C & D drive to 300GB each. So we purchased 4x300GB SAS Hard Drives and plugged in one by one to rebuild, now I could see unused space of 285.3GB on SAS Array A & 2x300GB unassigned drives.
We have purchased array accelerator & battery cache. Could you please let me know the step by step procedure on how to use the unused space and how can I bring the 2x300GB unassigned drives in to picture. I have sent an email also by attaching the screenshot.
Hi,
To understand better, can you send me the ADU report at tricksguide at gmail dot com. Also let me know how many logical drive and what raid levels they are at.
Once you sent me an email, please leave a comment here. I will try to assist you
Regards
SiRu
I have sent the ACU report to your email.
Hi Siru,
Did you receive my email. I have sent the ACU report. Kindly advise me the steps so that i can implement it tomorrow.
Hi,
I have replied in the comment section of my blog.
Regards
SiRu
As per my understanding, you have replaced both 1446 GB HDDs with 300GBs. RAID is set to RAID 1. Now you have ununsed space of 285 GB.
Solution:
Once you install cache+battery on your server, in ACU, please click on Logical drive 1 and click on Extend logical drive (NO Expansion required). Once it is extended, go to Windows, Disk management and extend logical drive from Windows.
Regards
SiRu
Yes, i have 285GB of unused space, but also i have 2X300GB of unassigned drives. What should i do with that? As per the screenshot which i have sent you there is unassigned drives, also unsed space in the same array. You are telling no array expansion is required?
Kishore, it seems like you have created one logical drive in ACU and created multiple partitions in Windows. This is not the ideal way we do. However, as the server is in production, we cannot anything about it.
Please click on the Array which has 285GB unused space and extend logical drive. Then come to OS (Hope it is windows), then from Disk management, you need to extend volume.
As you have another 2 unassigned HDDs, you need to add this to the Array by doing Array expansion, To do it, click on Array, click on Expnad array, select these 2 unassigned HDDs, let the expansion complete. Then you need to extend the logical drive. Later from OS, you need to extend space using Disk management utility.
Note: As you have multiple partitions in one logical drive, sometime you may face issue like “NOT able to expand C drive”, also remember your boot volume (first logical drive) size should not cross 2 TB. This is the MBR limitation. Please search google regarding 2 TB limitation of boot volume.
Cheers mate, best of luck
Thanks Siru
Hi Siru,
We need C – 300 GB & D – 300GB. With your resolution we can just split 300 for C&D. Correct me if I am wrong! Could you please tell me once the cache+battery is installed how can i use the unassigned drives? Shoukd i have to expand the array and then altogether i use the unused space?
Please advise.
Please check my previous reply
Can the replacement disk installed in a raid 5 array have data on it? It was a 36.4GB hotswapable disk taken from another server where only a 72GB was available from the supplier to replace a failing disk. I have bought three more 72GB disks to replace the smaller capacity disks because I was told that I could “span” them in the RAID 5 array and use the extra capacity. So now I want to systematically replace each one in turn after each rebuild and then use one of the used, but still good disks in the other server which has a failing 36GB disk in its RAID 5. So really two questions here; will this work to increase the capacity needed on the one server and will reusing one of the removed 32GB disks with data on it, rebuild as a replacement for the failing disk on the 2nd server?
Hi,
If you are installing a used HDD (which has data) to a server, the RIS sector of the HDD will be deleted, so your HDD will be like a blank. Old data which was there on your HDD will be deleted. Likewise, if you are removing an HDD from a existing working RAID 5 array, the data which is available on HDD will be unusable.
Answer to first question: You can systematically replace one HDD at a time.. Likewise, you can rebuild the entire logical drive but you need to take utmost care .. Repalce the HDD only after other HDD is completely rebuilt. Once RAID 5 is rebuilt using 72GB HDDs, then you will see unused HDD space in Array configuration utility (ACU), you can create a new logical drive here.. If you want to extend the existing logical drive, then your server should have Cache+battery installed. If you have both installed, then you can enlarge existing RAID 5 logical drive.
You can use the 36 GB HDD to another server, it will work without any issues. The moment you install this 36 GB HDD to another server, the RIS sector will be rewritten by the HP Smart Array controller and the RAID rebuild process will start.. It does not matter whether your 36 GB HDD had any data or not. You never have to format the HDD before you install it on another server. It is done by the HP Smart Array controller.
Hope this answer your question
Happy Cybermonday!!
Do we need to buy the cable seperately which connects the battery cache and the module?
When you buy the bundle, it comes with it. But if you purchased parts separately, then we will have to see whether you have the battery cable or not
Hello SiRu.
I have a HP ML370 G5 Server.
With a Smart Array P400 Controller.
I have a RAID 5 configuration using 3 HDD.
Memory module cache present: Yes.
Cache status: Ok.
Battery/Capacitor pack count: 0.
Battery/Capacitor pack status: Disable.
So, in ACU I am receiving a message that it said I have to change 2 of my HDDs because a predictable error occur soon.
Can I add 2 more HDDs in this situation..???
or
Can I change one of the HDD in the actual RAID for a new one without loss data.
Thank for your help.
This is in critical situation, you should take immediate backup of your data now.
One you buy 2 HDDs, replace one HDD, then allow the controller to rebuild your RAID 5. If it is successful, then install next HDD and let it continue rebuild the RAID.
DO NOT replace both HDDs at once, all your data will be lost. RAID 5 supports only 1 HDD failure.
Thanks a lot.
I will do that.
Just to be sure.
What about to expand the RAID of from 3 to 5 HDDs using 2 new ones.
Can I do that according the configuration I have. I mean, if I have
Memory module cache present: Yes.
Cache status: Ok.
Battery/Capacitor pack count: 0.
Battery/Capacitor pack status: Disable.
Thank again.
Expansion and extension required Cache+battery, you have no battery/capacitor here.. So it wont work.
Siru,
I followed your advice. I changed 2 HDDs, but I continue receiving the messages about a predictable error.
Do you have any other idea how can I fix this problem?
Thanks alot again.-
Hi,
Can you explain me the issue in detail again.. Thanks
Regards
SiRu
I have a HP ML370 G5 Server.
With a Smart Array P400 Controller.
I have a RAID 5 configuration using 3 HDD.
Memory module cache present: Yes.
Cache status: Ok.
Battery/Capacitor pack count: 0.
Battery/Capacitor pack status: Disable.
So, in ACU I am receiving a message that it said I have to change 2 of my HDDs because a predictable error will occur soon.
I followed your advice (“buy 2 HDDs, replace one HDD, then allow the controller to rebuild your RAID 5. If it is successful, then install next HDD and let it continue rebuild the RAID.”). I changed 2 HDDs, but I continue receiving the messages about a predictable error.
Do you have any other idea how can I fix this problem?
Thank for your help.
please send me the adU report at tricksguide at gmail dot com, once you have done, please leave a comment here.. Thanks. I will check it
Hi Siru
I having a problem with my server, before this i used Raid hdd and one of the hdd is blinking with orange color. I pull out all my hdd and plug in my sas hdd but it still having same problem with my one of the hdd. Can you explain to me why always the server having the problem because it is a new server HP ProLiant DL380p Gen 8. I hope you can help me to solve this problem because just one month using SAS hdd and the problem come again.
Hi Siru
I having a problem with my server HP ProLiant G380 Gen8. Before this i used RAID for my hdd and has a problem with one of the hdd. Right now i used for SAS hdd in the same server and find out still has same problem with my hdd. The orange color is blinking. Can you help to solve this problem because i think the new server cannot have any problem with their hdd. Or the data that we backup in our server is effect the server performance.
Thanks
Did you check the HDD health information, it seems like the HDD is in predictive failure state. This happens.
If you send me an ADU report at tricksguide at gmail dot come, I will cross and confirm it. Please leave a comment here once you send an email.
Regards
SiRu
Hi Siru
I just send the ADU report at tricksguide@gmail.com and hope you can check the problem.
Thanks
I checked the report and I find that the HDD have predictive failure. Physical Drive (600 GB SAS) HDD installed in bay 4 may fail any time soon.
Please replace the HDD, update all HDD and P420 controller firmware on server.
Regards
SiRu
Hi Siru,
Your information is definately very usefull and thankyou for your time!
I have a problem: I am trying to expand disk size on my HP Server currently on RAID 1.
I currently have six(6) 146 GB Disks and am trying to add the seventh one.
Question 1: Would I still be able to expand my logical drive space, not loose existing data and keep the configuration on RAID 1 by adding only one disk?
Question 2: Would I need one or two spare disks to increase my logical drive and at the same time keep RAID at RAID 1 and not lose any data.
THanks once again for your time.
Hi Nathan,
As you said you have 6 HDDs in RAID 1, I find it little difficult to understand because RAID 1 is basically with 2 HDDs. If more than 2 HDDs are used, then probably you are using RAID 1+0.
Before I answer your question, could you send me the ADU report of this server at tricksguide at gmail dot com, I will go through it once and will answer your question. Please explain in detail when you sent me an email, also leave a comment here once you sent an email.
Thanks
SiRu
One cu has SS p410 in blade 180G6 server with 8 disks . CU wants to create 8 separate logical drive with RAID0. Please advice
He can create 8 RAID 0 logical drives. Thats is not an issue (if he want). He needs Cache to be installed because without cache the number of logical drive a controller support will be only 2.
Morning Siru,
I use ProLiant DL360 G5 with a Smart Array P400i that is configured :
SAS Array A : 2*72 Go (RAID 1+0)
SAS Array B: 2*146 Go (RAID 1+0)
I’d like to add a 146 Go to Array B, and so change it from RAID 1 to RAID 5 without lost data (SharePoint databases).
The battery and cache are ok, i just check it on the utility.
Is it possible to make this operation ?
Is this operation will “block” the access to the hard disks, and so to the data ? It’s a production environnement ?
About the time about the operation if the data are blocked during the operation, 15min * 146 Gb, so the operation will take 36 hours ?
Thanks.
Nicolas.
Yes. it is possible
As the SAS Array B contains 2 HDDs, it is at RAID 1 only (though it says as RAID 1+0). You need to Expand the array by adding one more physical HDD, when you do the Expansion (Not extension), the Array will be automatically migrated to RAID 5. That is it.
Regards
SiRu
Hi Siru,
Please help , We have new server HP Proliant DL180 G6 with 3 unit Oh HDD SAs 300 GB 15 K,
we want to configure direct to RAID 5 , would you explain the step…
or I can follow your explain first above..
thx
You can follow the steps provided here
This should explain it.
Cheers
SiRu
Hi,
Great information.
One question. I have a P420i with 2MB Cache, battery and advanced Pack license v.2.0
Is is possible to convert a Raid 1 array to Raid 1 (ADM) … From 2 disk Mirror to 3 disk mirror. I built the server before we had the advanced license and would like to convert to ADM
Thanks
Mike
Ideally yes.. By adding one more HDD to the Array and then doing a RAID migration.. you should be able to do it now.
Hi SiRu,
I have been reading you post, see that you know a lo of about this.
Can you help me with this, please:
I have a server Proliant Dl380 G5, I have a raid 1+0 for OS, I have added 9 hard disk (146 GB per disk) to raid 5, I expanded the array and the logical drive wit ACU tool, When it finished. I rescan the controllers to check the array size in ACU, and it was ok, it was increased.
but If I check on Disk management, It didn’t increase. no Unused space available. It looks window is not recognized the added space. I reboot the server but is the same problem.
OS is Win server 2003
ACU version:7.70.12.0
total space fro RAID 5 after the expand: 2239714 MB
total HD in array: 17
if you need additional info. please tell me.
I appreciate you helping.
Thank you so much…
I have seen issues when the logical drive size increases more than 2 TB.. Also remember that Data partition with FAT file system cannot be extended.
In Disk management, do you see any unallocated space?
Hi SiRu..
I did not see the any unallocated space in DM, only in the array.
I think you are right about issues when the L.Drive increases more than 2 TB, because I fixed this issue removing disks from the array until 1.6 TB and it work!.
before this, I delete the array and tried to create it again with all disks but I got the same problem, I think you can not create arrays with more than 2 TB too at least in windows 2003.
thanks!
Hi Siru,
I want to thank you in advance.
I have HP x1600 storage server
HP StorageWorks Network Storage System
Windows Storage Server 2008 Standard SP2
I have six 1TB HDDs (RAID 5) and four logical drives. My C: drive (OS drive) is 40GB and about to run out of space. I want to extend my c: drive to 200GBs. In the ACU, I extend the c: drive by adding 160GBs to the c: drive to make it total of 200GBs in size. I go to the Windows Disk Management utility and see 160GBS unallocated next to my c: drive (40GBs). When I right-click on c: drive, I have option to “extend volume”. I have read your blog “Trick Guide” and other blog suggested that this procedure is ideally can be done. But some suggested that we shouldn’t extend with the OS volume. I need your comment and advice on that. If extending the OS volume is not recommended, what is my option? I’m running out of space on my c: drive. I have sent the ACU report to your email for your recommendation.
Thanks,
Tee
Hello
I have smart array p400 raid5 in proliant g5 dl380 with 3 x 73gb sas hdd. And windows 2003 r2 server.
I have battery and 256mb on controller what was necessary to expand array what i already did. I also extended logical drive. I already know reading all your comments that I need 512mb but as it is very little storage space on the disks – just 3 x 73gb from now maybe 256 could be enough?
I didnt restart server yet. Do I need it?
Because in windows disk management I see extended logical drives with unused free space.
My questions are:
do I need restart server to utilize unused space?
if it is not enough:
is it possible to use windows disk management to convert disks to dynamic disks to extend volumes to utilize free space?
This is running production environment containing c: as boot drive and d: as mssql database partition where both was expanded and extended.
Is it allowed to do convertion to dynamic disk?
You would need to use Diskpart utility and add the unused space.. Please do search in google with Diskpart in Windows 2003. You will get the solution. Also check whether in disk management, you see a extend option.
Glad to see that with 256MB you were able to do expansion and extension.. Many times, it did not work for me.
Hi Siru,
I want to thank you in advance.
I have HP x1600 storage server
HP StorageWorks Network Storage System
Windows Storage Server 2008 Standard SP2
I have six 1TB HDDs (RAID 5) and four logical drives. My C: drive (OS drive) is 40GB and about to run out of space. I want to extend my c: drive to 200GBs. In the ACU, I extend the c: drive by adding 160GBs to the c: drive to make it total of 200GBs in size. I go to the Windows Disk Management utility and see 160GBS unallocated next to my c: drive (40GBs). When I right-click on c: drive, I have option to “extend volume”. I have read your blog “Trick Guide” and other blog suggested that this procedure is ideally can be done. But some suggested that we shouldn’t extend with the OS volume. I need your comment and advice on that. If extending the OS volume is not recommended, what is my option? I’m running out of space on my c: drive. I have sent the ACU report to your email for your recommendation.
Thanks,
Tee
Hi sir,
WE have hp proliant dl 380 g6 server in this server we have 6 HDD SAS
1) 146*2=Raid 1 Logical Drive 1 Port 1I Bay -1 & Bay 2 (installed the OS and some of software Total Size 136.7GB C:74.1GB,E:62.5GB)
2) 300*4=Raid 5 Logical Drive 2 Port 1I Bay 3 & Bay 4,Port 2I Bay 5 & Bay 6( Installed our application database F:390 GB,G: 447GB)
Currently the G drive is low Disk Space WE like to increase Please help with is it is possible or not most of the people will telling it is not possible
please help to sort it out this issue
i am not sure the OS installed on the server. However, here is my answer.
It is possible to extend the second logical drive (that is RAID 5) by adding one more physical HDD and extending it using ACU. The steps are available in my blog.
Once you are done, as per the OS installed in your server, you will need to use an OS based utility (NOT ACU/HP tools) and see whether you can extend the G drive you have created. This purely depends on whether the G drive can be extended from OS.
As far as Hardware based Expansion and extension is concerned, it is possible. The dependency here is the OS.
Hi Siru,
I have HP x1600 storage server
HP StorageWorks Network Storage System
Windows Storage Server 2008 Standard SP2
I have six 1TB HDDs (RAID 5) and four logical drives. My C: drive (OS drive) is 40GB and about to run out of space. I want to extend my c: drive to 200GBs. In the ACU, I extend the c: drive by adding 160GBs to the c: drive to make it total of 200GBs in size. I go to the Windows Disk Management utility and see 160GBS unallocated next to my c: drive (40GBs). When I right-click on c: drive, I have option to “extend volume”. I have read your blog “Trick Guide” and other blog suggested that this procedure is ideally can be done. But some suggested that we shouldn’t extend with the OS volume. I need your comment and advice on that. If extending the OS volume is not recommended, what is my option? I’m running out of space on my c: drive.
Thanks
This is the answer i got from my friend who work on NAS.
Extending OS volume on Storage server (NAS) is not recommended. OS has default capacity of 40GB. He can uninstall any unused applications and clear old logs. He can also verify following article:
http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bizsupport/TechSupport/Document.jsp?lang=en&cc=us&objectID=c01939719&jumpid=reg_R1002_USEN
If issue persists, last resort is restore to the factory image on the NAS box.
Regards
Hello SiRu, your expertise would be greatly appreciated. I need to expand storage however I do not have any available bays nor do I have the optional 2 bay drive cage installed. Could I install one larger hard drive and let it rebuild, repeating the process until the 3 drives in Array B have been replaced and then expand the volume within ACU and the dynamic drive in the OS (Windows 2003)?
HP Proliant ML370 G4
HP Array 641 Controller w/192 MB BBWC in slot 1
6 Ultra 320 Wide Hard Drives
Array A: 2 36.4 GB – RAID 1
Array B: 3 72.8 GB – RAID 5
Spare: 1 72.8 GB
Hello Dan,
It is not advisable to do that . The best practice is always to expand and extend the logical drive which is not by rebuilding but by actually adding a hard drive to next available bay, I understand that you do not have additional bays to install new hard drives, what I would advise is you to backup the entire data in array B, install new larger drives, create new array and restore the data from the backup.
If you are desperate to do the same method as you wish, you may go ahead and do it. It will work, but if you ask me? I may not do it on my server.
Thanks SiRu.
Hi SiRu,
I need your help, if possible.
I have a ProLiant DL380 G7
Smart Array P410i
cciss/c0d0: GB RAID 1(1+0)
cciss/c0d1: GB RAID 1(1+0)
cciss/c0d2: GB RAID 1(1+0)
cciss/c0d3: GB RAID 5
cciss/c0d4: GB RAID 1(1+0)
on Logical Drive 4 is a RAID5 with 3 HDD. I had on this Logical Drive some unused space that I extended. After that i can’t see the lvm that was on this RAID 5. I can see the filesystem still.
What you advice me to do?
how exactly the unused space on LD was extended?
Regards
SiRu
Hi,
Great article!
If I have a RAID 1+0 with 8 disks, is it possible to change this RAID to RAID 5, with no data loss?
Best regards
Martin
Hi,
I have done in the past and it worked for me without data loss. Please understand that there is a risk involved and you should have a valid data backup with you.
The process might take a long long time to continue. Ensure that you set the Rebuild and Transformation priority to High in Array Configuration Utility. If there are lot of I/O happening on your server, then this process will take forever to complete.
Regards
SiRu
Hello SiRu,
I have problem when add new sata disk to HP server proliant ML350 G5(E200i raid controller). There is Array A which contain 4xSATA 146GB into 3-6 slot with Raid 10, so when add new pair disk into slots 1-2 capacity of 750GB array B is created. After few sec arrays switch value, A becomes B and B becomes A. As a result I can’t boot into the OS 2008R2 Entr.
I try to find sometrhing into Bios, ORCA… but nothing. How to resolve thes problem?
Tnx
Hi
This issue seems to very strange. It looks like the Logical drive numbers are getting changed and in E200 controller we do not have an option to set the boot volume manually.
So my request will be to update the firmware of E200 controller to the very latest available at hp.com and then check whether it happens. Also you could check with HP support team regarding this issue (hope server is still under warranty).
Please have a valid data backup
Regards
SiRu
Hi,
After updating firmware situation is unchanged.Interestingly, we have this situation, try a different server also HP 350 G5 under the same
condition and then everything worked as it should.
Great!
Hi SiRu,
I have a Smart Array P400 with firmware Versio 7.22 and ACU v8.70
To logical Drives
One has 2 Drives RAID 1
the other has 3 Drives RAID 5
I need to expand the first logical drive(RAID 1), Is it possible?
If it is what is the bes method?
thx in advance.
Raid 1 means only 2 HDDs (hp defnition). Do you wish to migrate Raid 1 to raid 5? It is possible in certain condition.
If you want to continue with Raid, there is a non standard way available
Please tell me what you want to do, and give info about server model, storage controller, firmware, cache, battery and hdd size
Regards
Siru
Thank you for the quick reply.
I want to maintain the mirror configuration.
I thought it was possible to transform the RAID 1 to RAID 1 + 0 and then expand the logical drive or break the mirror and rebuild it over larger drives and the expand the logical drive.
Information you required:
Server Model: Prolaint 380 G5 Rack
Storage Controller Model: Smart Array P400 with firmware v7.22
ACU v8.70
Two 36 GB Drives in RAID 1
Three 146 GB Drives in RAID 5
That means that I have slots for three more drives.
No battery Module, yet.
For any expansion or extension, you need battery.nso install it first.
If you really wish to expand and extend Raid 1, then you can manually pull one 36 gb out and install a higher capacity hdd. Please wait till rebuild completes. Once it is done, replace the other 36gb hdd with a higher capacity hdd. Again wait for rebuild to complete. Now you can do logical drive extension.
Please go through existing comments in the page. I explained it many times.
Remember, without battery, you cant think of expansion or extension.
Regards
SiRu
Thanks SiRu.
Hi SiRu,
We are planning to replace one of the Hard drive(6G DP 10K SAS 900GB) in server(HP Proliant DL360 G7 Server).
It issues following error thru management system
POST Error: 1720-S.M.A.R.T. Hard Drive Detects Imminent Failure
Could you please send me the steps to replace
Thanks in advance
Regards
Shan
May I know what instructions you are looking for? Your server support hot plu hard drive. Just remove the failed hdd (check for Amber hdd LED).
If you are using RAID 0 on your server then you need to have data backup.
Hi Siru
I wonder if you can give me some advice.
Partitions C and D are on disk1 on RAID1. C has approx. 2GB free space.
The 200i controller has battery and 128Mb cache enabled. Windows 2k8 r2 OS.
Have purchased two larger drives to expand the array and replace the two 72GB drives one by one.
But cAn I expand C whilst the server is online. Planning to do the work over the weekend and also perform a full backup beforehand.
I have sent the ACU report to your email
Thanks
viash
I would not suggest expanding the drive by replacing the drive one by one and waiting to rebuild on a larger capacity. I always suggest full back up, install new drives create new array and then restore backup
Hi SiRu , I have DL380G7 , with 3 HDDs – RAID5 , running ESXi 4, Now , I want extend RAID-5 with 2 HDDs added .
Can I add 2HDDs to extend RAID5 on the same time ?
How to extend ESXi datastore ?
And when extension process running , can I online my server ? I think extend process running on background ?
Hi Dream,
You can add 2 HDDs at the same time and expand array & extend logical drive. It will work as long as you have cache+battery installed.
Regarding Vmware datastore, you may check VMware Knowledge Base 1017662 & 1752.
While expansion and extension running, your server can be in production and Online.. But it will be much much faster if you do offline
Regards
SiRu
Hi Siru,
You are a great Man!!!! Helping by resolving lots of issues…great job…Thanks.
Thank you very much
Thank you very much
I am reveiving Following status alert when exteded the logical drive
“Information Status Messages
Code Description
785 Background parity initialization is currently queued or in progress on Logical Drive 2 (1.1 TB, RAID 5). If background parity initialization is queued, it will start when I/O is performed on the drive. When background parity initialization completes, the performance of the logical drive will improve”
Give some of the suggession for this.
This is a common message.. Once you start copying / writinh file to the logical drive or partition, this message will go away.
This is not an error. This is common with raid 5, 6 etc as they do parity initialization of volume.
Just start using the logical drive and check after a week
Regards
SiRu